KG thanks Atlanta owner for his inspirational words

Atlanta co-owner Michael Gearon Jr. was active before Game 6 with Boston, telling an Atlanta luncheon that he considered Kevin Garnett the “the dirtiest guy in the league” and the Celtics an aging group compared to the Hawks.

Maybe Gearon learned his lesson after Garnett produced a memorable game of the ages Thursday night to lead the Celtics’ series-clinching 83-80 victory over the Hawks.

Garnett erupted for 28 points, 14 rebounds, five blocks and three steals in a performance he said was fueled by Gearon’s comments.

“First, I want to say thank you to their owner for giving me some extra gas tonight,” Garnett told reporters in comments reported by SI.com. “My only advice to him is that next time he opens his mouth [to] actually know what he is talking about with Xs and Os versus checkbooks and bottom lines. Just because you have a lot of money doesn’t mean you can open your mouth.”

In fairness to Gearon, others have noted Garnett’s diminishing skills compared to earlier in his career. Garnett said he doesn’t read such criticism, but still is boosted when he learns about those slights.

“I take my craft very seriously,” he said. “Being 35, I put a lot of work into my craft. I always have, since ’95. It’s almost like you guys are shocked. Like this isn’t what I do every day. Like this isn’t what I am built for. It comes off disrespectful. You guys calling me old — that just fuels the fire. Whoever is doing that, I appreciate that.”

Garnett’s monster game boosted the Celtics into the Eastern Conference semifinals against Philadelphia. And Gearon’s comments about his team just might serve as fuel for the proud franchise as it guns for its record 18th NBA championship.

The opportunity is there. The Celtics just have to make the most of it.